Saururus chinensis

Also Known As

Saururopsis chinensis
Saururus loureiroi
Spathium chinense
Chinese Lizard's Tail

Plant type

perennial, aquatic

size

H: 3'-6'
W: 12"-24"

planting zones

6a-9b

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Saururus chinensis plant details

Saururus chinensis is a broadleaf semi-evergreen perennial aquatic with green and white foliage. In fall and summer white flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and standing water water. Does well in clay soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Saururus chinensis

Plant type: perennial aquatic
Plant family: araceae, saururaceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen green and white
Mature size: 12 IN - 24 IN - wide, 3 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: white blooms in fall and summer

GROWING CONDITIONS for Saururus chinensis

USDA Zones: 6a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: standing water

Soil needs: clay

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Saururus chinensis is a peculiar and rare perennial with stems up to four feet high with mid green leaves, the uppermost of which are often white when the curving pipe cleaner type flowers bloom in fall. Loves moist locations. This is a spreading perennial. Plant in drier locations or in containers to control its growth.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

The Asian counterpart of our native Lizard's Tail with spikes of ivory flowers, collecting Asian versions of American natives has become popular of late, (collectors often hold meetings and chant 'Reunite Gondwanaland' while shooting into the air with AK-47's). However, I digress, taxonomically the two are separated by the position of the anthers in chinensis they are held below the stigmas, in cernuus they are held above. ZONE 6